Subaru STI Performance Concept shows future of STi

Subaru has pulled the wraps off a new STI Performance Concept at the New York Motor Show. Designed to showcase the capabilities of the STI brand, the concept also signifies the beginning of Subaru looking into how it can further introduce STI technology into the rest of its model ranges.

Clearly based on the Subaru BRZ, the STI Performance concept adds racecar aero, a huge fixed rear wing as well as a carbon front splitter and rear diffuser. Lightweight carbon fibre wing mirrors, front bumper detailing and roof also help reduce the car’s weight.

At the heart of the STI Performance sits a racing engine to match its racecar looks. The 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine from the BRZ GT300 has been dropped into the concept with power sitting at around 300bhp. Mechanical change also extend to the cars suspension and chassis, too.

On the surface, while the concept may seems to point towards a faster and more powerful version of the BRZ, Subaru was keen to stress that there are no plans to develop a production version. Instead, the focus of the concept is on expanding and strengthening three core business areas of Subaru’s performance arm; aftermarkets, STI-tuned cars and motorsport.

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Subaru’s main focus will be in North America where models tuned by STI will be made available in the future, all of which featuring modifications to the chassis, suspension, performance and aerodynamics.